The Stiles Blog

At Stiles Services, we understand how important it is for homeowners in Athens, Georgia, and the surrounding areas to have a reliable HVAC system when summer temperatures rise. Preparing your air conditioning system before the hottest days arrive can make a big difference in comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term equipment performance.

Routine HVAC maintenance and a few simple preparations can help prevent costly breakdowns, lower your energy bills, and improve your indoor air quality. In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to do to make sure your HVAC system is ready to take on the summer heat.

Why Preparing Your HVAC System for Summer Is So Important

When temperatures soar, your air conditioning system will work harder and longer to keep your home cool. If the system is dirty, worn, or uninspected, it may not be able to perform at peak capacity. That can lead to inconsistent temperatures, higher energy costs, and even system failure.

Homeowners often underestimate the value of preventive maintenance. A well-maintained HVAC system not only performs better but also lasts longer and uses less energy. Preparing your system before the heat sets in gives you peace of mind and helps avoid being left without cool air during a heatwave.

Start With a Clean HVAC Filter

Changing your HVAC filter is one of the most essential steps in seasonal preparation. A dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder to cool your home. Over time, this added strain can lead to higher utility bills and premature equipment failure.

At Stiles Services, we recommend checking your filter monthly during peak seasons. Most homes do well with a new filter every 1 to 3 months, but if you have pets or allergies, more frequent changes may be necessary. Make sure you purchase the correct size and MERV rating for your system—typically between MERV 8 and 11 for optimal home performance without overburdening the unit.

A fresh filter not only protects your HVAC system but also helps trap dust, pollen, and other airborne pollutants, contributing to better indoor air quality for your family.

Clean and Inspect the Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor condenser unit plays a crucial role in heat exchange, which is vital for effective cooling. Leaves, dirt, grass, and other debris can easily accumulate around the unit during the fall and winter months, making it less efficient.

Before summer begins, it’s important to clear away any debris from around the condenser. You should also ensure that plants, shrubs, or other landscaping are trimmed back at least two feet to allow for proper airflow. If the coils or fins on the unit appear dirty, you can rinse them gently with a garden hose—just be sure to turn off the power first. Avoid using high pressure, which could bend the fins.

Professional maintenance from Stiles Services includes a thorough cleaning of the condenser and inspection for damage or wear, ensuring it’s ready for peak operation.

Check Air Vents and Ductwork

Even if your HVAC system is in excellent shape, poor airflow inside your home can reduce cooling effectiveness. Take time to walk through your house and inspect air vents in each room. Make sure vents are open, unobstructed by furniture or curtains, and free of dust or buildup.

Over time, ducts can develop leaks or become clogged with debris, especially in older homes. If some rooms feel warmer than others, or if you notice excess dust in your home, it may be time for a professional duct inspection. At Stiles Services, we can check for leaks, clean ductwork, and make recommendations to improve airflow and comfort throughout your home.

Update Your Thermostat Settings

Your thermostat is the command center of your HVAC system. Before summer hits, make sure it’s properly calibrated and programmed for seasonal use. A well-programmed thermostat can help keep your home comfortable while minimizing energy waste.

We recommend setting your thermostat to about 78°F when you’re home during the day and a few degrees higher when you’re away. Programmable or smart thermostats offer the flexibility to automate these settings based on your schedule, which can result in noticeable energy savings.

If your thermostat is outdated, upgrading to a smart model can offer better control and efficiency. Stiles Services can install and set up smart thermostats, ensuring they’re synced with your HVAC system for the best performance.

Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up

While some steps can be handled by homeowners, nothing replaces a professional HVAC inspection. A trained technician from Stiles Services will be able to spot issues you might miss and tune your system for maximum efficiency.

During a seasonal maintenance visit, our team at Stiles Services will:

• Inspect the condenser and evaporator coils for dirt or damage.
• Check refrigerant levels and recharge if necessary.
  
• Tighten electrical connections and test system components.
  
• Lubricate moving parts to reduce wear.
  
• Examine the blower motor and fan for proper operation.
  
• Ensure your thermostat is functioning correctly.

This comprehensive service helps your HVAC system run smoothly and reliably, reducing the chance of mid-summer failures that can lead to costly emergency repairs.

Seal Air Leaks and Check Home Insulation

Even the best HVAC system can struggle to keep your home cool if conditioned air is leaking out. Air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork can cause your system to run longer than necessary, increasing your energy consumption.

Check for drafts near windows and doors and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping where needed. Proper insulation in your attic and crawlspace also helps maintain indoor temperatures, reducing the strain on your HVAC unit. These steps might seem minor, but they can make a significant difference in your home’s overall comfort and energy use.

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

As you prepare for summer, it’s a good time to evaluate your system’s performance. Some issues may indicate the need for repairs or even a system upgrade. Watch for these warning signs:

• Rooms that never cool down properly
  
• Rising utility bills despite normal usage
  
• Unusual noises coming from your system
  
• Frequent cycling on and off
  
• An HVAC unit that’s over 10-15 years old

If you notice any of these issues, contact a Stiles Services air conditioning repair expert for a full inspection. We’ll help you determine whether you just need HVAC repair service or if it’s time to consider replacement options.

Stay Comfortable All Summer With Stiles Services

Summer in Georgia can be intense, but with the right preparation, your HVAC system can keep your home cool and comfortable no matter how high the temperature climbs. By taking care of your filter, outdoor unit, vents, thermostat, and overall system health, you can enjoy worry-free comfort and better energy efficiency.

At Stiles Services, we have the knowledge to help homeowners in Athens get the most from their HVAC systems. Whether you need seasonal maintenance, thermostat installation, or a full system upgrade, our experienced technicians are ready to serve.

Schedule your summer HVAC tune-up with Stiles Services today and beat the heat before it starts. Call 706-548-1328 or visit their website today for a free estimate and to schedule service.